Patentable/Patents/US-11466837
US-11466837

Linear optical projection device and method of use thereof

PublishedOctober 11, 2022
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Inventorsnot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

An optical projection device for projecting a linear image is disclosed. Light emitted by an array of light emitting diodes arranged along an array axis is focused in at least a direction perpendicular to the array axis and diffused in a direction parallel to the array axis, thereby generating a linear image in which light from adjacent light emitting diodes is spatially overlapped. In some embodiments, the focusing and diffusion of the light is performed by a Fresnel lens and a lenticular lens, respectively. The optical projection device may be employed to virtually mark a surface, such as a floor in an industrial setting. High power light emitting diodes may be employed to generate a linear image having an illuminance of at least 4000 lux that is focused to a distance between 7.5 and 20 feet.

Patent Claims
73 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The method according to claim 1 wherein the optical projection device is absent of an image mask device between the linear array of light emitting diodes and the at least one optical component.

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Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The method according to claim 1 wherein the at least one optical component is configured to collect and transmit the light from the linear array of light emitting diodes such that at least 25% of an optical power emitted by the linear array of light emitting diodes is transmitted to form the linear image.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The method according to claim 1 wherein at least one light emitting diode is a high-power light emitting diode consuming an electrical power of at least 5 W.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to lighting systems using light emitting diodes (LEDs), specifically addressing the need for high-power LED configurations to achieve greater luminous output. The system includes at least one high-power LED that consumes at least 5 watts of electrical power, enabling brighter illumination compared to lower-power LEDs. The high-power LED is integrated into a lighting apparatus designed to manage heat dissipation, ensuring reliable operation over extended periods. The apparatus may include cooling mechanisms such as heat sinks or active cooling systems to prevent thermal degradation of the LED. The lighting system can be configured for various applications, including industrial, commercial, or residential use, where high luminosity is required. The high-power LED is selected based on its ability to convert electrical energy into light efficiently while maintaining stability under sustained power conditions. The system may also incorporate additional LEDs of varying power levels to optimize light distribution and energy consumption. The overall design ensures that the high-power LED operates within safe thermal limits, extending its lifespan and performance. This approach addresses the challenge of achieving high brightness in LED lighting without compromising durability or efficiency.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The method according to claim 1 wherein a distance between a distal end of the optical projection device and the linear image formed on the surface is between 7.5 and 60 feet.

Plain English Translation

This method describes using an optical projection device to create a linear image on a surface, such as a floor. The device includes a linear array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and at least one optical component. This optical component is specifically configured to focus the light from the LEDs in one direction (perpendicular to the LED array) and diffuse it in another direction (parallel to the LED array), ensuring a continuous linear image is formed. A key aspect of this method is that the projected linear image is formed on the surface at a distance ranging from 7.5 feet to 60 feet away from the light-emitting end of the projection device.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The method according to claim 1 wherein a distance between a distal end of the optical projection device and the linear image formed on the surface is between 7.5 and 40 feet.

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Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The method according to claim 1 wherein a distance between a distal end of the optical projection device and the linear image formed on the surface is between 7.5 and 22.5 feet and an illuminance of the linear image is at least 4000 lux.

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Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The method according to claim 1 wherein a distance between a distal end of the optical projection device and the linear image formed on the surface is between 7.5 and 22.5 feet and an illuminance of the linear image is at least 10000 lux.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The method according to claim 1 wherein the at least one optical component is configured such that a length of the linear image exceeds a length of an output aperture of said at least one optical component by at least a factor of 10.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The method according to claim 1 wherein the at least one optical component comprises a lens configured to focus the light and an optical diffusing component configured to diffuse the light along the image axis.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical systems for light projection, specifically addressing the challenge of achieving uniform light distribution while maintaining focus. The system includes at least one optical component designed to manipulate light in a controlled manner. The optical component comprises a lens that focuses the light to a precise point or area, ensuring sharp imaging or illumination. Additionally, an optical diffusing component is integrated to spread the light along an image axis, reducing intensity variations and creating a more uniform light distribution. This combination allows for both focused and diffused light output, which is useful in applications requiring precise illumination with even light spread, such as displays, lighting systems, or imaging devices. The diffusing component may be positioned relative to the lens to optimize the balance between focus and diffusion, ensuring the light meets specific performance criteria. The invention improves upon existing systems by providing a more versatile optical solution that combines focusing and diffusing functions in a single component, enhancing efficiency and reducing the need for multiple separate elements.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The method according to claim 10 wherein a relative distance between the linear array of light emitting diodes and the lens is controllable for varying a focal distance of the linear image.

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Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The method according to claim 10 wherein the lens is a spherical lens.

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Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The method according to claim 10 wherein the lens is a cylindrical lens.

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Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The method according to claim 10 wherein the optical diffusing component is a lenticular lens.

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Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The method according to claim 10 wherein the lens is a Fresnel lens.

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Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The method according to claim 15 wherein the optical diffusing component is a lenticular lens.

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Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The method according to claim 16 wherein the Fresnel lens and the lenticular lens are formed as a monolithic optical component.

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Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The method according to claim 16 wherein the Fresnel lens is positioned adjacent to the lenticular lens.

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Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The method according to claim 16 wherein the housing is configured such that the Fresnel lens is movable relative to the linear array of light emitting diodes, the method further comprising moving the Fresnel lens relative to the linear array to focus the linear image on the surface.

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Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The method according to claim 16 wherein the housing is configured such that an orientation of the lenticular lens is variable relative to the linear array of light emitting diodes without altering a position of the Fresnel lens, the method further comprising varying the orientation of the lenticular lens to align the image axis.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 21

Original Legal Text

21. The method according to claim 16 wherein the housing is configured such that the lenticular lens is removable, the method further comprising removing the lenticular lens and replacing the lenticular lens with a different lenticular lens having a different respective fan angle.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for adjusting the viewing angle of a display system using interchangeable lenticular lenses. The system addresses the challenge of providing flexible viewing angle control in displays, particularly for applications requiring dynamic adjustments to optimize visibility or privacy. The method involves a housing that holds a lenticular lens, which is designed to be removable and replaceable with another lenticular lens having a different fan angle. The fan angle determines the angular range over which the display content is visible. By swapping lenses, the system can adapt to different viewing requirements, such as expanding the viewing angle for group settings or narrowing it for privacy. The housing ensures secure and precise alignment of the lenticular lens, maintaining display quality during the replacement process. This approach eliminates the need for complex mechanical adjustments or electronic controls, offering a simple yet effective solution for customizable viewing angles in displays. The method is particularly useful in environments where display visibility needs vary, such as public kiosks, digital signage, or privacy-sensitive applications.

Claim 22

Original Legal Text

22. The method according to claim 18 wherein the Fresnel lens directly contacts the lenticular lens.

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Claim 23

Original Legal Text

23. The method according to claim 10 wherein the optical diffusing component is selected from the group consisting of a lenticular lens and a Fresnel lens.

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Claim 24

Original Legal Text

24. The method according to claim 1 wherein the at least one optical component comprises a diffractive optical element.

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Claim 25

Original Legal Text

25. The method according to claim 1 further comprising independently controlling each light emitting diode of the linear array of light emitting diodes to animate a display of the linear image.

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Claim 26

Original Legal Text

26. The method according to claim 1 wherein the linear array of light emitting diodes are powered to emit the light in response to a signal.

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Claim 27

Original Legal Text

27. The method according to claim 26 wherein the signal is generated by a sensor.

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Claim 28

Original Legal Text

28. The method according to claim 27 wherein the sensor is a motion sensor.

Plain English Translation

A method for monitoring environmental conditions using a sensor system involves detecting changes in the environment and generating alerts based on predefined thresholds. The sensor system includes at least one sensor configured to measure environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, or motion. The method includes collecting data from the sensor, analyzing the data to determine if it exceeds a predefined threshold, and generating an alert if the threshold is exceeded. The alert may be transmitted to a user device or a central monitoring system for further action. In one embodiment, the sensor is a motion sensor, which detects movement within a monitored area. The motion sensor may be used to trigger alerts when unauthorized movement is detected, such as in security applications. The system may also include multiple sensors of different types, allowing for comprehensive environmental monitoring. The method further includes calibrating the sensor to ensure accurate readings and adjusting the predefined thresholds based on environmental conditions or user preferences. The system may operate in real-time or periodically, depending on the application. The method ensures reliable monitoring and timely alerts, enhancing safety and efficiency in various environments.

Claim 29

Original Legal Text

29. The method according to claim 28 wherein the motion sensor is configured to detect motion within a spatial region defined relative to the location where the linear image is formed.

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Claim 30

Original Legal Text

30. The method according to claim 1 wherein the linear array of light emitting diodes comprises at least two adjacent subarrays of light emitting diodes, each subarray including a first light emitting diode having a first colour and a second light emitting diode having a second colour, the method further comprising independently controlling the first light emitting diodes and the second light emitting diodes to control a colour of the linear image.

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Claim 32

Original Legal Text

32. The method according to claim 31 wherein the first light emitted by the first linear array of light emitting diodes has a different colour than the second light emitted by the second linear array of light emitting diodes.

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Claim 33

Original Legal Text

33. The method according to claim 31 further comprising controlling the first linear array of light emitting diodes and the second linear array of light emitting diodes such that only one of said first linear array of light emitting diodes and said second linear array of light emitting diodes is powered.

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Claim 34

Original Legal Text

34. The method according to claim 1 wherein the linear image is a first linear image, the method further comprising forming employing a second optical projection device to generate a second linear image on the surface such that the second linear image intersects the first linear image at an angle.

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Claim 35

Original Legal Text

35. The method according to claim 1 wherein the linear image is employed to demarcate a hazard zone.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for using a linear image to define and demarcate a hazard zone in a physical environment. The method involves generating a linear image, such as a line or boundary, that visually or electronically marks a hazardous area to alert individuals or systems to potential dangers. The linear image can be projected, displayed, or otherwise rendered in a way that clearly indicates the boundaries of the hazard zone, ensuring that people or automated systems recognize and avoid the area. The method may include adjusting the linear image based on real-time conditions, such as changes in the environment or movement of objects within the hazard zone, to maintain accurate demarcation. Additionally, the linear image may be used in conjunction with other safety measures, such as alarms or barriers, to enhance hazard awareness. The invention is particularly useful in industrial, construction, or transportation settings where clear hazard demarcation is critical for safety. The linear image can be generated using various technologies, including lasers, digital displays, or augmented reality systems, depending on the application. The method ensures that hazard zones are dynamically and accurately defined, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall safety.

Claim 36

Original Legal Text

36. The method according to claim 1 wherein the linear image is employed to demarcate a walkway.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for demarcating walkways using linear images involves generating a linear image, such as a line or pattern, and projecting it onto a surface to define a walkway boundary. The linear image is produced by a projection device, such as a laser or light-emitting diode (LED), and is dynamically adjustable in position, length, and appearance to adapt to changing environments. The system may include sensors to detect obstacles or changes in the environment, allowing the projected walkway to be modified in real-time to ensure safe and clear pathways. The linear image can be customized in color, brightness, and pattern to enhance visibility and distinguishability, particularly in low-light or high-traffic areas. The method may also involve integrating the projection system with navigation or guidance systems to assist users in following the demarcated walkway. The system is particularly useful in temporary or dynamic environments where physical walkway markers are impractical, such as construction sites, event venues, or emergency evacuation routes. The linear image ensures clear, adaptable, and easily modifiable walkway demarcation without the need for permanent installations.

Claim 37

Original Legal Text

37. The method according to claim 1 wherein the linear image is employed to demarcate a vehicle guide.

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Claim 38

Original Legal Text

38. The method according to claim 1 wherein the linear image is employed to demarcate a reconfigurable workspace.

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Claim 39

Original Legal Text

39. The method according to claim 1 wherein the surface is a floor.

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Claim 40

Original Legal Text

40. The method according to claim 39 wherein the floor resides within an industrial facility.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for monitoring and managing the condition of floors within industrial facilities. The method addresses the problem of wear, damage, or contamination on industrial floors, which can lead to safety hazards, operational inefficiencies, or regulatory non-compliance. The method involves using sensors to detect and analyze floor conditions, such as surface integrity, cleanliness, or structural integrity, in real time. The sensors may include optical, acoustic, or pressure-based devices that capture data on floor degradation, spills, or other issues. The collected data is processed to identify anomalies, track changes over time, and generate alerts when conditions exceed predefined thresholds. The system may also integrate with automated cleaning or maintenance systems to respond to detected issues. Additionally, the method includes generating reports for compliance, maintenance scheduling, or performance analysis. The floor monitoring system is designed to operate within industrial environments, where floor conditions are critical for safety and productivity. The method ensures continuous monitoring, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency by proactively addressing floor-related issues.

Claim 41

Original Legal Text

41. The method according to claim 39 wherein the floor resides within a warehouse.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for optimizing floor cleaning in industrial environments, particularly warehouses, involves automated detection and cleaning of floor contaminants. The method uses sensors to identify debris, spills, or other contaminants on the warehouse floor. Once detected, a cleaning apparatus is deployed to target and remove the contaminants. The cleaning apparatus may include robotic or automated systems equipped with brushes, vacuums, or other cleaning mechanisms. The system may also incorporate mapping and navigation capabilities to efficiently cover the warehouse floor, ensuring thorough cleaning while minimizing operational downtime. The method may further include real-time monitoring and reporting of cleaning status, allowing for proactive maintenance and improved warehouse hygiene. The system is designed to operate autonomously or semi-autonomously, reducing the need for manual intervention and enhancing cleaning efficiency in large-scale warehouse environments.

Claim 42

Original Legal Text

42. The method according to claim 39 wherein the floor resides within a manufacturing facility.

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Claim 44

Original Legal Text

44. The optical projection device according to claim 43 wherein said optical projection device is absent of an image mask device between said linear array of light emitting diodes and said at least one optical component.

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Claim 45

Original Legal Text

45. The optical projection device according to claim 43 wherein said at least one optical component is configured to collect and transmit the light from said linear array of light emitting diodes such that at least 25% of an optical power emitted by said linear array of light emitting diodes is transmitted to form said linear image.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 46

Original Legal Text

46. The optical projection device according to claim 43 wherein at least one light emitting diode is a high-power light emitting diode configured to consume an electrical power of at least 5 W.

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Claim 47

Original Legal Text

47. The optical projection device according to claim 43 wherein said at least one optical component is configured such that a distance between a distal end of said optical projection device and the linear image is between 7.5 and 22.5 feet.

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Claim 48

Original Legal Text

48. The optical projection device according to claim 47 wherein said linear array of light emitting diodes and said at least one optical component are configured such that an illuminance of the linear image is at least 4000 lux.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 49

Original Legal Text

49. The optical projection device according to claim 47 wherein said linear array of light emitting diodes and said at least one optical component are configured such that an illuminance of the linear image is at least 10000 lux.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 50

Original Legal Text

50. The system according to claim 43 wherein said at least one optical component is configured such that a length of the linear image exceeds a length of an output aperture of said at least one optical component by at least a factor of 10.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 51

Original Legal Text

51. The optical projection device according to claim 43 wherein said at least one optical component comprises a lens configured to focus the light and an optical diffusing component configured to diffuse the light along the image axis.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 52

Original Legal Text

52. The optical projection device according to claim 51 wherein a relative distance between said linear array of light emitting diodes and said lens is controllable for varying a focal distance of said linear image.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 53

Original Legal Text

53. The optical projection device according to claim 51 wherein said lens is a spherical lens.

Plain English Translation

The optical projection device is designed to enhance image projection quality by incorporating a spherical lens. This device is used in projection systems where precise light focusing and minimal distortion are critical, such as in digital projectors, microscopes, or optical sensors. The primary challenge addressed is achieving uniform light distribution and sharp focus across the projection area, which is often compromised by aberrations in conventional lens designs. The device includes a lens system where the lens is specifically a spherical lens, which provides a symmetrical curvature to minimize optical distortions like spherical aberration. The spherical lens is positioned to focus light from a light source onto a target surface, such as a projection screen or sensor array. The curvature of the lens ensures that light rays converge at a single focal point, improving image clarity and reducing edge blurring. Additionally, the device may include a light source, such as an LED or laser, and a housing to align the components. The spherical lens may be coated or treated to enhance light transmission and reduce reflections. The overall design aims to optimize light efficiency and image quality, making it suitable for high-precision applications where optical performance is critical.

Claim 54

Original Legal Text

54. The optical projection device according to claim 51 wherein said lens is a cylindrical lens.

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Claim 55

Original Legal Text

55. The optical projection device according to claim 51 wherein said optical diffusing component is a lenticular lens.

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Claim 56

Original Legal Text

56. The optical projection device according to claim 51 wherein said lens is a Fresnel lens.

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Claim 57

Original Legal Text

57. The optical projection device according to claim 56 wherein said optical diffusing component is a lenticular lens.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical projection devices designed to enhance image quality by reducing visual artifacts such as moiré patterns and pixelation. The device includes an optical diffusing component positioned in the optical path to scatter light and improve uniformity. In this specific embodiment, the optical diffusing component is a lenticular lens, which consists of an array of elongated, parallel, and semi-cylindrical lenses. The lenticular lens diffuses light in one direction while maintaining focus in the orthogonal direction, allowing for controlled light distribution. This reduces the visibility of individual pixels or grid structures in the projected image, resulting in smoother and more natural visual output. The lenticular lens can be integrated into various projection systems, including digital light processing (DLP) projectors, liquid crystal display (LCD) projectors, and laser projection systems. The invention addresses the challenge of maintaining high-resolution image quality while minimizing visual distortions caused by pixelation or interference patterns, particularly in high-brightness or high-contrast projection environments. The lenticular lens design ensures efficient light diffusion without significant loss of brightness or resolution, making it suitable for both consumer and professional projection applications.

Claim 58

Original Legal Text

58. The optical projection device according to claim 57 wherein said Fresnel lens and said lenticular lens are formed as a monolithic optical component.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical projection devices, specifically those used to project images or light patterns. The primary problem addressed is the need for compact, efficient optical systems that minimize alignment errors and reduce the number of separate components. Traditional projection systems often require multiple lenses or optical elements, which can introduce misalignment issues and increase manufacturing complexity. The invention describes an optical projection device that includes a Fresnel lens and a lenticular lens integrated into a single monolithic optical component. The Fresnel lens is designed to collimate or focus light, while the lenticular lens is structured to control light distribution, such as directing light into specific angular ranges. By combining these two lens types into one piece, the device reduces the need for separate alignment and assembly steps, improving optical performance and simplifying manufacturing. The monolithic design also minimizes optical losses and distortions that can occur at interfaces between multiple components. This approach is particularly useful in applications where space is limited, such as in portable projectors or display systems, where reducing the number of optical elements is critical for achieving compact and reliable performance.

Claim 59

Original Legal Text

59. The optical projection device according to claim 57 wherein said Fresnel lens is positioned adjacent to said lenticular lens.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 60

Original Legal Text

60. The optical projection device according to claim 59 wherein said Fresnel lens directly contacts said lenticular lens.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 61

Original Legal Text

61. The optical projection device according to claim 57 wherein said housing is configured such that said Fresnel lens is movable relative to said linear array of light emitting diodes to vary a focal position of the linear image.

Plain English Translation

An optical projection device includes a housing containing a linear array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and a Fresnel lens. The housing is designed to allow movement of the Fresnel lens relative to the LED array, enabling adjustment of the focal position of the projected linear image. This configuration allows for precise control over the focus of the projected light, ensuring optimal image clarity and alignment. The device is particularly useful in applications requiring focused linear illumination, such as scanning systems, optical sensors, or display technologies. By adjusting the position of the Fresnel lens, the system can compensate for variations in distance or alignment, maintaining consistent performance. The movable lens design enhances flexibility in deployment, allowing the device to adapt to different environmental or operational conditions without requiring structural modifications. This feature is critical in applications where precise light focusing is necessary, such as in industrial inspection, medical imaging, or high-precision optical measurements. The device may also include additional components, such as a light guide or reflector, to optimize light distribution and efficiency. The overall design ensures that the projected linear image remains sharp and well-defined, regardless of the focal adjustments made.

Claim 62

Original Legal Text

62. The optical projection device according to claim 61 wherein said housing comprises a first cylindrical body portion and a second cylindrical body portion, said second cylindrical body portion supporting said Fresnel lens, wherein said second cylindrical body portion is extendable relative to said first cylindrical body portion.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an optical projection device designed to enhance image projection capabilities, particularly in adjustable or extendable configurations. The device includes a housing with two cylindrical body portions: a first cylindrical body portion and a second cylindrical body portion. The second cylindrical body portion supports a Fresnel lens, which is used to focus or direct light for projection purposes. A key feature of the device is that the second cylindrical body portion is extendable relative to the first cylindrical body portion, allowing for adjustable positioning of the Fresnel lens. This extendable design enables the device to accommodate different projection distances or angles, improving flexibility in projection setups. The Fresnel lens, being supported by the extendable portion, can be moved closer or farther from the projection source or target, optimizing image clarity and focus. The overall structure ensures stability while allowing precise adjustments, making the device suitable for applications requiring adaptable projection configurations.

Claim 63

Original Legal Text

63. The optical projection device according to claim 57 wherein said housing is configured such that an orientation of said lenticular lens is variable relative to said linear array of light emitting diodes.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 64

Original Legal Text

64. The optical projection device according to claim 63 wherein said housing comprises a first cylindrical body portion and a second cylindrical body portion, said second cylindrical body portion supporting said lenticular lens, wherein said second cylindrical body portion is movable relative to said first cylindrical body portion to permit variation of an orientation of said lenticular lens relative to said linear array of light emitting diodes.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 65

Original Legal Text

65. The optical projection device according to claim 63 wherein said housing is configured such that the orientation of said lenticular lens is variable relative to said linear array of light emitting diodes without altering a position of said Fresnel lens.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 66

Original Legal Text

66. The optical projection device according to claim 57 wherein said housing is configured such that said lenticular lens is removable.

Plain English Translation

An optical projection device is designed to project images or light patterns onto a surface. A key challenge in such devices is ensuring precise alignment and easy maintenance of optical components, particularly the lenticular lens, which shapes the projected light. The invention addresses this by incorporating a housing structure that allows the lenticular lens to be removed. This removable design simplifies assembly, calibration, and replacement of the lens without disassembling the entire device. The housing may include mechanical features such as clips, slots, or threaded fasteners to securely hold the lens while allowing its detachment when needed. The device may also include additional optical elements, such as light sources, collimators, or diffusers, which are aligned with the lenticular lens to produce the desired projection. The removable lens design ensures flexibility in adjusting the optical path or replacing damaged components, improving the device's longevity and usability. This configuration is particularly useful in applications requiring frequent adjustments or maintenance, such as industrial lighting, display systems, or specialized imaging devices.

Claim 67

Original Legal Text

67. The optical projection device according to claim 51 wherein said optical diffusing component is selected from said group consisting of a lenticular lens and a Fresnel lens.

Plain English Translation

An optical projection device includes a light source, an optical diffusing component, and a projection lens. The device is designed to project light onto a target surface with controlled diffusion to improve uniformity and reduce hotspots. The optical diffusing component is positioned between the light source and the projection lens to scatter light before it reaches the lens, ensuring even distribution across the projected area. The diffusing component can be a lenticular lens or a Fresnel lens, each providing distinct diffusion characteristics. A lenticular lens uses an array of cylindrical lenses to spread light in one or two dimensions, while a Fresnel lens uses concentric grooves to bend light, offering a thinner and lighter alternative. The projection lens then focuses the diffused light onto the target surface, enhancing image quality and reducing brightness variations. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring uniform illumination, such as displays, lighting systems, or optical sensors, where precise light distribution is critical. The selection of the diffusing component allows customization based on specific diffusion requirements, ensuring optimal performance for different use cases.

Claim 68

Original Legal Text

68. The optical projection device according to claim 43 wherein said at least one optical component comprises a diffractive optical element.

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Claim 69

Original Legal Text

69. The optical projection device according to claim 43 further comprising control circuitry operably coupled to said linear array of light emitting diodes, wherein said control circuitry is configured to control operation of said linear array of light emitting diodes.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 70

Original Legal Text

70. The optical projection device according to claim 69 wherein said control circuitry is configured to independently control each light emitting diode of said linear array of light emitting diodes to animate a display of the linear image.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical projection devices, specifically those using a linear array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) to project an image. The problem addressed is the limitation of static or simple animated displays in such devices, which lack the ability to create dynamic, high-resolution visual effects. The invention improves upon prior art by incorporating control circuitry that independently controls each LED in the linear array, enabling precise animation of the projected linear image. This allows for more complex and visually engaging displays, such as moving patterns, text, or graphics, by dynamically adjusting the intensity, color, or timing of individual LEDs. The control circuitry may also synchronize the LED animation with other components of the projection device, such as a scanning mechanism or optical elements, to enhance the overall display quality. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring compact, high-performance projection systems, such as augmented reality devices, wearable displays, or portable projectors. By independently controlling each LED, the device achieves greater flexibility in image formation and animation compared to systems that rely on uniform or grouped LED activation.

Claim 71

Original Legal Text

71. The optical projection device according to claim 69 further comprising a sensor operably coupled to said control circuitry, wherein said control circuitry is configured to control operation of said linear array of light emitting diodes in response to a signal received from said sensor.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 72

Original Legal Text

72. The optical projection device according to claim 71 wherein said sensor is a motion sensor.

Plain English Translation

An optical projection device is designed to project images or data onto a surface, such as a wall or screen, for display purposes. A key challenge in such devices is accurately detecting and responding to environmental changes, such as movement or positioning, to ensure optimal projection quality and functionality. To address this, the device incorporates a sensor that monitors motion or movement within its operational environment. This sensor detects changes in position, orientation, or other dynamic factors that could affect the projection. By integrating a motion sensor, the device can dynamically adjust projection parameters, such as focus, brightness, or alignment, to maintain clear and stable output. The sensor may be configured to trigger automatic corrections or user alerts when significant motion is detected, enhancing usability and performance. This solution improves the reliability and adaptability of optical projection systems in varying conditions.

Claim 73

Original Legal Text

73. The optical projection device according to claim 72 wherein said motion sensor is configured to detect motion within a spatial region defined relative to a location of the linear image.

Plain English Translation

An optical projection device includes a motion sensor that detects motion within a predefined spatial region relative to the location of a projected linear image. The device projects a linear image, such as a line or pattern, onto a surface, and the motion sensor monitors movement within a specific area around this image. This allows the device to track objects or users interacting with the projected linear image, enabling applications like gesture recognition, interactive displays, or automated adjustments based on detected motion. The motion sensor may use technologies such as infrared, ultrasonic, or optical sensing to detect movement within the defined spatial region. The spatial region is dynamically adjusted relative to the linear image's position, ensuring accurate motion detection even if the image shifts due to environmental changes or user interaction. This feature enhances the device's responsiveness and precision in applications requiring real-time motion tracking. The optical projection device may also include additional components, such as a light source, projection optics, and processing circuitry, to generate and control the projected linear image and process motion sensor data. The system can be used in various fields, including augmented reality, industrial automation, and consumer electronics, where motion detection relative to a projected image is essential.

Claim 74

Original Legal Text

74. The optical projection device according to claim 69 wherein said linear array of light emitting diodes comprises at least two adjacent subarrays of light emitting diodes, each subarray including a first light emitting diode having a first colour and a second light emitting diode having a second colour, wherein said control circuitry is configured to independently control said first light emitting diodes and said second light emitting diodes to control a colour of the linear image.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 76

Original Legal Text

76. The optical projection device according to claim 75 wherein said control circuitry is configured such that the first light emitted by said first linear array of light emitting diodes has a different colour than the second light emitted by said second linear array of light emitting diodes.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 77

Original Legal Text

77. The optical projection device according to claim 75 wherein said control circuitry is configured to control operation of said first linear array of light emitting diodes and said second linear array of light emitting diodes such that said first linear array of light emitting diodes can be independently controlled relative to said second linear array of light emitting diodes.

Plain English translation pending...
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Patent Metadata

Filing Date

September 29, 2020

Publication Date

October 11, 2022

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Cite as: Patentable. “Linear optical projection device and method of use thereof” (US-11466837). https://patentable.app/patents/US-11466837

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Linear optical projection device and method of use thereof